The playoffs are now out of reach for the Apalachee High School football team for 2011. The Wildcats will now have to play for pride.

Ironically, based on how well the team has performed in the past few seasons, it’s something AHS should be uniquely qualified to do.

The Wildcats host Cedar Shoals Friday for Homecoming and will look to close out the final three games of 2011 season on a strong note. AHS coach Shane Davis said he believes his players will have the right mental attitude for the contest.

"We have an opportunity as coaches to practice what we preach,” Davis said. “We have to carry ourselves in a proper manner and go out and keep working hard and do the right things. I believe our players have gotten better each week as the season has gone along. We have continued to fight. I know our kids will do that this Friday as well.”

Entering this Friday’s game at 3-4, the Jaguars would likely need some help but winning out is a must.

“I expect a very physical game,” Davis said. “They are similar to the Cedar Shoals of old. They are very big up front and also have good team speed. Their kids are very physical. They have a group that does not shy away from contact.”

Cedar Shoals had a coaching change not long before the 2011 season began but coach Dreco Thomas kept the team’s Wing T offense.

“They do a good job with it,” Davis said. “They keep your defense honest with counters and misdirection. They do throw it down the field some. You have to play a complete defense against them.”

Defensively, the Jaguars have gone from a three-man from to a four-man look.

“Cedar is a very good team,” said AHS offensive coordinator Joel Miller. “They will be the fastest defense we have played all year. They are big up front and have plenty of speed at linebacker and in the secondary They are physical and seem to be in the right spots most of the time. This will be a big test for us. If we allow them to be more physical than us, then it could be a long night.”

While Cedar is based out of the Wing T, AHS defensive coordinator Matt Sorrells said the Jaguars remind him of the Wildcats from 2009.

“It reminds me a little of our offense when we had Jon Lee because they have a very good back that they will put in the I and run the zone and toss sweeps with,” Sorrells said. “Their offensive line is very big and their quarterback is very accurate.”

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